Learn the history of Northern Christian Radio and our Mission

Northern Christian Radio family of stations offer a wonderful and God-honoring variety of programming.

Northern Christian Radio, Inc is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization that operates non-commercial FM radio stations in Northern Michigan. Northern Christian Radio is based in Gaylord, MI, with studios located on highway M-32 east of Gaylord and in Traverse City, MI.

In the early 1980s, a group of Christian men began to explore the possibility of starting a Christian radio station for Northern Michigan. Through their efforts, Northern Christian Radio, Inc was formed, and WPHN went on the air on Easter Sunday in 1985.

On December 22, 2023, Northern Christian Radio, Inc acquired Good News Media, Inc with a total of 8 stations and 2 translators growing their family of stations and format types.

OUR MISSION

BY GOD’S GRACE…

we are committed to seeing lives changed, families strengthened, and communities impacted for the glory of Christ

Meet the NCR Team

  • Pat Scott

    President & General Manager

    Meet Pat Scott, the passionate Executive Director of Northern Christian Radio. With a heart ablaze for the Kingdom, Pat's fervent prayer is to witness the ministry making a profound impact on communities spanning Northern Michigan, Ontario, and beyond.

    Married to his beloved Carol for 40 blessed years, Pat cherishes their journey alongside their four remarkable children. While their eldest son Joshua's family brings immense joy, Pat’s pride swells as he reflects on Jeremy's role as a PGA Professional in sunny Palm Beach, Florida, and Jonathan's journey into fatherhood. However, their family story holds both joy and sorrow, as their daughter Elisabeth Ashley now rests with the Lord since 1997.

    When not immersed in ministry, Pat finds solace in the green pastures of the golf course, exploring new destinations, and cherishing moments with his family, especially his beloved grandchildren. To encapsulate his unwavering spirit, Pat identifies with the song "Don’t Stop Believing." With Philippians 3:13-14 as his guiding light, Pat’s journey is one of unwavering faith and relentless pursuit of Kingdom impact.

  • Dawn Summerland

    Dawn Summerland

    Director of Donor Development

    Dawn Summerland, the driving force behind donor development at The Promise FM, is a beacon of passion and dedication. With a love for coffee and a knack for organization, Dawn’s life is a symphony of productivity and purpose.

    From nurturing relationships with donors to navigating the complexities of fundraising, Dawn’s days are filled with excitement and fulfillment. Grounded in Psalm 62:1, Dawn finds solace in the quiet moments, knowing that God’s peace surrounds her, even in the busiest of days.

    With a secret talent for creating order out of chaos and a love for pretending she has her life together, Dawn’s quirky charm adds a touch of whimsy to her role. As she continues to lead with grace and determination, Dawn remains committed to making a meaningful impact in the lives of others.

  • Fred Young

    Fred Young

    Programming Director and Morning Co-Host at the Promise

    Fred Young, the mastermind behind the scenes and the cheerful voice greeting listeners each morning on The Promise FM, embodies the spirit of creativity and resilience. As a devoted single father and a seasoned mountain man, Fred's life is a testament to perseverance and ingenuity.

    From crafting intricate productions to mastering the art of knife throwing and fire starting, Fred's talents know no bounds. With Michael W. Smith's "Surrounded" as his theme song, Fred finds comfort in knowing that God's faithfulness surrounds him, even in the midst of life's challenges.

    Anchored by Ephesians 6:10, Fred's life verse reminds him to draw strength from the Lord as he navigates the peaks and valleys of life. With a heart as vast as the mountains he calls home, Fred spreads joy and inspiration wherever he goes.

  • Dennis Hutchinson

    Assistant PD and Host on The Source

    Dennis Hutchinson, the Assistant Program Director and a beloved host on The Source, is a beacon of positivity and inspiration. With over three decades of experience in broadcasting, Dennis has dedicated his life to spreading the message of hope and faith.

    Beyond the microphone, Dennis's heart beats for service, as evidenced by his work empowering young girls in Guatemala to pursue their dreams. From winning Elvis contests to finding solace in the great outdoors, Dennis's life is a testament to embracing adventure and living each day to the fullest.

    Anchored by Micah 6:8, Dennis's life mantra revolves around justice, mercy, and humility. With Bruce Hornsby's "The Show Goes On" as his theme song, Dennis reminds us that no matter life's challenges, the show must—and will—go on.

  • Sara Schieber

    Morning Show Co-Host on Promise FM

    Sarah Schieber, the warm and welcoming co-host of the morning show on The Promise FM, radiates joy and compassion with every word she speaks. As a devoted wife, mother of three, author, and songwriter, Sarah's life is a testament to resilience and faith.

    From topping the charts with her music to sharing her journey of grief and healing through her books, Sarah's talents are as diverse as they are inspiring. Grounded in Psalm 46:5, Sarah finds strength in knowing that God's presence is her constant companion, guiding her through life's ups and downs.

    With a penchant for long walks, hanging out with friends, and indulging in her love for shopping, Sarah embraces life with enthusiasm and gratitude. As she continues to share her message of hope and love, Sarah's light shines bright, illuminating the lives of all who listen.

  • Pete Lathrop

    Morning Show Host on WLJN

    Pete Lathrop, the voice of reason and reassurance on the morning airwaves of WLJN, brings warmth and wisdom to every broadcast. With a love for family, married to Becky, dad of three, and grandpa to five, and a passion for history, Pete's life is a tapestry woven with stories of faith and perseverance.

    From sharing tales of the past to inspiring listeners with words of encouragement, Pete's voice resonates with authenticity and sincerity. Grounded in 2 Chronicles 16:9, Pete finds comfort in knowing that God's eyes are always upon him, guiding his steps with grace and wisdom.

    With a secret talent for recounting historical events and a love for the great outdoors, Pete's life is a testament to the power of storytelling and the beauty of God's creation. As he continues to inspire and uplift listeners each morning, Pete's legacy of faith and service shines bright.

  • Kelly Blackwell

    Music Director & Mid-Day Host

    Kelly Blackwell, the music maestro and mid-day host on The Promise FM, infuses each day with melody and meaning. As a devoted wife and mother, Kelly's life is a symphony of love, resilience, and faith.

    From navigating single parenthood with grace to pursuing her passion for radio, Kelly's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance. With a dual accent and a penchant for passionate reading and writing, Kelly's quirks add color to her already vibrant personality.

    Grounded in Deuteronomy 31:8, Kelly finds strength in knowing that the Lord goes before her, guiding her steps with unwavering love. With Switchfoot's "Learning to Breathe" as her theme song, Kelly reminds us all to lean on faith and embrace life's journey with open arms.

  • Meet Rachael Jenneman

    Rachael Jenneman

    Mid-Day Host on WLJN

    Rachael brings a blend of warmth and wisdom to the airwaves as the mid-day host on WLJN. With a heart for storytelling and a love for her family, Rachael's life is a testament to embracing unexpected paths with courage and grace.

    Married to David, mom of three, and theater nerd-turned-ministry enthusiast. Rachael loves '90s music and John 9's blind man story. She is the author of the books- The Real War on Women and Underachiever.

    From pursuing a career in theater to answering a call to ministry, Rachael's journey is marked by faith and resilience. Her books serve as beacons of hope, guiding others through life's challenges with empathy and understanding. Grounded in John 9, Rachael finds inspiration in the story of the blind man, a reminder that adversity can reveal the power of God's love.

    Listen to her podcast, Unique on Purpose

  • Meet Gabe Bouwmeester, the AFTERNOON HOST on WLJN

    Gabriel Bouwmeester

    Afternoon Host on WLJN and Social Media Director

    Gabe Bouwmeester, the dynamic voice behind the afternoon airwaves on WLJN, brings energy and enthusiasm to every broadcast. With a passion for sports and a love for his wife Jenna, Gabe's life is a testament to chasing dreams and embracing adventure.

    From becoming the youngest individual to do play-by-play commentary at Ford Field to honing his skills in beatboxing and voice impressions, Gabe's talents are as diverse as they are impressive. Grounded in Isaiah 41:10, Gabe finds solace in knowing that fear has no place in a life guided by faith.

    With Switchfoot's "Mess of Me" as his theme song, Gabe reminds us all that our struggles can lead to growth and redemption. With a heart full of passion and a voice that resonates with authenticity, Gabe inspires listeners to live boldly and embrace the journey ahead.

  • Dave Schreiber

    Dave Schreiber

    Afternoon Host on The Promise FM

    Dave Schrieber lights up the airwaves each afternoon on The Promise FM, bringing joy and inspiration to listeners across the region.

    With a heart for adventure, Dave’s ultimate goal in life is to explore the world’s wonders, from the lush landscapes of Ireland to the ancient ruins of Greece. He’s already achieved remarkable feats, including conquering the rugged terrain of the Grand Canyon in a single day—an accomplishment that tested both his physical endurance and indomitable spirit.

    Beyond the radio booth, Dave’s life is a tapestry woven with diverse passions. From his days as a touring musician to his current role as a juggling enthusiast, he embraces each moment with enthusiasm and zest. Grounded by his faith, Dave finds solace and strength in Jeremiah 29:11, a reminder that God’s plans are filled with hope and purpose.

  • Leanne Ackert

    Business and Partnership Underwriter

    Beyond her professional accomplishments, Leanne's life is anchored by her deep faith and commitment to her family. Married to Scot, she finds joy in their three sons and three grandchildren.

    Outside of work, Leanne is an avid traveler, finding solace in exploring new destinations, hiking amidst nature's beauty, and indulging in water-related activities. Her life's theme song, "Because He Lives," encapsulates her unwavering faith and resilience, reminding her that she can overcome any challenge with God by her side.

    One of Leanne's secret talents is her gift of conversation, effortlessly connecting with others and fostering meaningful relationships. Her life is guided by the verse from 2 Corinthians 5:17, which speaks to her transformative journey in Christ and the promise of new beginnings.

  • Larry Carr

    Larry Carr

    Partnership Underwriter

    Larry is driven by his passion for fostering connections and making a positive impact. With a loving family consisting of his wife, four children, and seven grandchildren, Larry finds immense joy and fulfillment in his role as a husband, father, and grandfather.

    Larry considers his enduring marriage of 40 years to be his biggest achievement, a testament to his unwavering commitment to love and cherish his spouse. One of Larry's endearing qualities is his ability to see the good in everyone, embodying compassion and empathy in all his interactions.

    In his leisure time, Larry enjoys the serenity of boating and the refreshing embrace of swimming, finding solace and rejuvenation amidst the waters. A lesser-known aspect of Larry's life is his past as a singer in a band, showcasing his versatility and passion for music.

  • Meet Scott Blackwell

    Scott Blackwell

    Office Manager

    Scott Blackwell, the dedicated office manager and donor department administrator, brings order and efficiency to the heart of The Promise FM. With a love for travel and a passion for music, Scott's life is a harmonious blend of adventure and service.

    From exploring new destinations to capturing moments through his lens, this tourist enthusiast with wife Kelly and step-son Alex find joy in the simple pleasures of life. With Brandon Heath's "I'm Not Who I Was" as his theme song, Scott embraces the journey of growth and transformation.

    Anchored by his favorite verse, Scott draws strength from the promise of God's presence and guidance in every aspect of his life. With a heart full of gratitude and a spirit of generosity, Scott continues to uplift and inspire those around him, both in the office and beyond.

  • Meet Sara Novocin

    Sara Novocin

    Marketing & Analytics

    Sara Novocin, a seasoned digital marketing strategist, brings a wealth of experience and passion for engagement to her role at The Promise FM. Married to Andy with two daughters, Simone and Celine, Sara’s ultimate goal is to increase the digital footprint of NCR family to positively impact listeners for the Kingdom.

    Despite the challenges of pursuing her MBA during the pandemic while raising a toddler, Sara’s resilience and determination shine through. Guided by Isaiah 41:10, she finds strength in God’s promise to uphold and strengthen her. With a love for gardening, baking, and learning languages, Sara’s journey is one of continuous growth and exploration.

    Her commitment to embracing each new day with gratitude and a positive attitude is reflected in Danny Gokey’s “New Day” a reminder that anything is possible with the right mindset.

  • Jodi McCalib

    Executive Administrator

    Meet Jodi McCalib, the financial wizard keeping The Promise FM on solid ground. With a knack for numbers and a heart for her family, Jodi's life is a testament to balancing work and play with gusto.

    As a devoted wife and mother of three plus two pups, Jodi finds joy in the simple pleasures of life, from cheering on the Packers to spending quality time with her children. Her quirky sense of humor shines through in her unique approach to life, whether she's crafting intricate cake creations or embracing her alphabetically ordered world.

    Grounded in Matthew 5:16, Jodi's light shines bright, illuminating the lives of those around her with kindness and compassion. With a theme song like "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun," Jodi reminds us all to embrace the joy in life's everyday moments.

  • Tricia Stevens

    Staff Assistant

    Married to Terry, mom of one, with a love of the simple joys in life, Tricia Stevens, the heart and soul of The Promise FM's administrative team, is a beacon of kindness and efficiency. With a love for adventure and a passion for creativity, Tricia's life is a testament to embracing new experiences with grace and enthusiasm.

    From coordinating schedules to managing day-to-day operations, Tricia's organizational skills keep the station running smoothly. Grounded in Psalms 46:10 and 143:8, Tricia finds solace in the quiet moments, knowing that God's presence is her source of strength and guidance.

    With a secret talent for listening and a love for capturing moments through photography, Tricia's life is a testament to the beauty of simplicity and the power of connection.

  • Heather Korte

    Heather Korte

    Administrative Assistant

    Heather brings her organizational prowess and dedication to her role as an Administrative Assistant. With four grown children and a committed marriage, Heather's life is a testament to her nurturing spirit and resilience.

    Her biggest achievement lies in raising her children while maintaining a strong and loving relationship with their father. Heather finds joy in her family, cherishing moments spent with her children and their spouses.

    Beyond her family life, Heather enjoys indulging in her hobbies, including cooking delectable meals, playing golf, and lending a helping hand to others in need. One of her unique talents is her ability to recite all 50 states in alphabetical order, showcasing her impressive memory and attention to detail.

    Heather's life is guided by the verse, "Do your best and let God take care of the rest," reflecting her faith and trust in divine guidance.

  • Don Parker

    Engineering

    Don Parker, the man behind the scenes ensuring seamless transmission across Traverse City, is a true testament to dedication and expertise. With a love for jazz and a passion for ham radio, Don's life is a symphony of innovation and creativity.

    From navigating transmitter sites to tending to his farm, Don's days are filled with adventure and purpose. Grounded in 1 John 1:9, Don finds solace in knowing that God's forgiveness and grace are ever-present, guiding him through life's twists and turns.

    With a secret talent for playing the trumpet by ear and a penchant for storytelling, Don's life is a testament to the power of perseverance and faith. As he continues to journey forward, Don remains steadfast in his commitment to serving others and spreading joy wherever he goes.

  • Tom Lewis (T-Dawg)

    Fundraising Consultant

    Tom Lewis, affectionately known as T-Dawg, brings decades of experience and a heart for ministry to his role as a fundraising consultant at The Promise FM. Married since 1988 to Becky and blessed with three children and five grandchildren, Tom's ultimate goal is to leave a lasting legacy that speaks to the fullness of life in body, soul, and spirit.

    Despite facing adversity, including a near-fatal auto accident in 1994 that left his wife Judy with a traumatic brain injury, Tom's resilience and faith have propelled him forward. His journey as a licensed professional engineer in Michigan for 40 years and leadership roles in a consulting firm testify to his commitment to excellence and perseverance.

    Guided by Romans 15:13, Tom finds solace in choosing perspective in life's difficulties, trusting that God will make a way. His love for physical fitness, slalom course waterskiing, and training as a triathlete speaks to his determination and zest for life. With a knack for storytelling and a secret talent for playing the accordion, Tom's life is a symphony of faith, hope, and endurance.

  • Frank Reed

    On-Air Special Guest

    Frank, a distinguished on-air special guest, has left an indelible mark on The Promise FM with his remarkable achievements and dedication. Married to Pam since 1991, with two children, Ryan and Hope, Frank's journey is a testament to the power of faith and perseverance.

    As the recipient of prestigious awards such as the National Religious Broadcasters Air Personality of the Year and the McVay Media Market Program Director of the Year, Frank's contributions to the radio industry are unmatched. Grounded in Romans 8:1, Frank finds strength in God's grace and redemption, guiding his every endeavor.

    With a love for riding his recumbent bike, Frank embodies resilience and determination in every aspect of his life. His impact on The Promise FM and its community is cherished, as he continues to inspire others with his commitment to excellence and faith.

  • Del Reynolds

    Broadcasting Engineer

    Married with four children and six grandchildren, Del has been orchestrating the airwaves since he was 15. From owning his first station at 27 to managing 13 commercial stations, including the cherished Dove FM, Del's career is a symphony of success.

    When he's not spinning tunes, you'll find him soaring the skies as a private pilot or tickling the ivories of the church organ. With a life verse reminding us of life's ever-changing melody, Del's journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance.

  • Mike Way

    Mike Way

    Board Chair

    Mike Way, the esteemed chair of The Promise FM's board, is a beacon of leadership and vision. With a love for golf and a passion for outdoor activities, Mike's life is a testament to the power of faith and perseverance.

    From guiding the board with wisdom and insight to serving his community with humility and compassion, Mike's journey is marked by a deep commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. Grounded in Colossians 1:9-14, Mike finds strength in knowing that God's presence and grace are with him always, guiding his steps with wisdom and love.

    With a love for reading and spending time with his family, Mike's life is a testament to the beauty of embracing life's blessings with gratitude and joy.

  • Doug Nitchman

    Doug Nitchman

    Board Vice-Chairman

    Doug Nitchman, the steadfast leader serving as the board's vice-chairman, is a beacon of wisdom and strength. With a passion for golf and a love for his family, Doug's life is a testament to the power of perseverance and dedication.

    From building a successful business from the ground up to embracing life's challenges with grace, Doug's journey is marked by resilience and faith. Grounded in Joshua 24:15, Doug remains committed to serving the Lord and leading his family with humility and love.

    With a secret talent for storytelling and a love for the great outdoors, Doug's life is a testament to the beauty of simplicity and the richness of God's blessings.

  • Kim Carlson

    Kim Carlson

    Board Treasurer

    Kim Carlson, a dedicated member of The Promise FM's board, is a beacon of wisdom and leadership. With a love for sports and a passion for the outdoors, Kim's life is a testament to the power of perseverance and determination.

    From balancing a successful career at Ford with serving in church leadership roles, Kim's journey is marked by a deep commitment to faith and service. Grounded in John 6:47, hie finds strength in knowing that eternal life is found in Jesus Christ, the source of all hope and joy.

    With a secret talent for playing the guitar and a love for adventure, Kim's life is a testament to the beauty of embracing life's opportunities with courage and enthusiasm.

  • Mary Katke-Gillum

    Mary Katke-Gillum

    Board Member

    Mary Katke-Gillum, a compassionate member of The Promise FM's board, is a beacon of kindness and empathy. With a love for nursing and a passion for healing, Mary's life is a testament to the power of compassion and service.

    From caring for patients to volunteering in her community, Mary's journey is marked by a deep commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. Grounded in Jeremiah 29:11, Mary finds solace in knowing that God has a plan for her life, filled with hope and purpose.

    With a secret talent for playing the violin and a love for spending time in nature, Mary's life is a testament to the beauty of embracing God's creation. As she continues to serve with humility and grace, Mary's impact on The Promise FM and its community is truly inspiring.

  • Tom Listvan

    Tom Listvan

    Board Member

    Tom Listvan, a cornerstone of the board at The Promise FM, is a beacon of dedication and service. With a legacy rooted in family and faith, Tom's life is a testament to the power of hard work and perseverance.

    From building a successful plumbing and heating company to touching countless lives through his philanthropic endeavors, Tom's impact extends far beyond the boardroom. Grounded in Colossians 3:23, Tom finds purpose in every task, knowing that all work done with diligence brings glory to God.

    With a love for sports and outdoor activities, Tom finds joy in the simple pleasures of life. As he continues to lead with integrity and wisdom, Tom's legacy of service continues to inspire all who know him.

  • Doug VanDyke

    Doug VanDyke

    Board Member

    Doug VanDyke, a pillar of strength and resilience on the board at The Promise FM, is a beacon of hope and inspiration. With a love for physical fitness and a passion for storytelling, Doug's life is a testament to the power of perseverance and faith.

    From overcoming adversity after a near-fatal auto accident to finding joy in physical fitness and outdoor activities, Doug's journey is marked by resilience and determination. Grounded in Romans 15:13, Doug finds strength in choosing perspective and trusting in God's plan for his life.

    With a secret talent for playing the accordion and a love for adventure, Doug's life is a testament to the beauty of embracing life's twists and turns with courage and grace.

  • Bill Garant

    Bill Garant

    Board Member

    Bill Garant, a devoted member of The Promise FM's board, is a shining example of faith and dedication. With a love for golf and a passion for serving others, Bill's life is a testament to the power of kindness and generosity.

    From raising three wonderful children to building a successful career, Bill's journey is marked by resilience and perseverance. Grounded in Philippians 4:13, Bill finds strength in knowing that he can do all things through Christ who strengthens him.

    With a secret talent for talking on the radio and a love for friendly competition on the golf course, Bill's life is a testament to the joy of embracing life's simple pleasures.

Career Opportunities

  • Evening Host

    If your calling is to shine bright, ministering to hurting people when the sun goes down, we would love to connect with you!

    The Promise FM is looking for a gifted communicator with a soft heart, to be the voice of encouragement from 7pm-Midnight. Our daily mission is to see lives changed, families strengthened, and communities impacted for Jesus Christ in Northern Michigan and Ontario - and you can be another strong point of connection!

    We offer a competitive wage, with a healthy benefits package and opportunity for growth. Based in beautiful Northern Lower Michigan, we have it all for the year-round outdoor adventurer!

    Send air check and resume to careers@thepromisefm.com.

    Northern Christian Radio Inc, The Promise FM is an EEOC employer.

  • Front Office Coordinator & Bookkeeper

    If you love to meet new people, thrive in an organized work space and flourish in a team atmosphere - we would love to connect with you!

    The Promise FM is looking for a front office coordinator with a heart for people and drive to create a welcoming and organized work environment. Our daily mission is to see lives changed, families strengthened, and communities impacted for Jesus Christ in Northern Michigan and Ontario – you will be our first point of connection!

    We offer a competitive wage, with a healthy benefits package and opportunity for growth. We are based in beautiful northern Lower Michigan, offering year-round outdoor adventure.

    Send cover letter and resume to: careers@thepromisefm.com

    Northern Christian Radio Inc, The Promise FM is an EEOC employer.

  • Internships

    More details coming soon!